Orthorhombic CuSbS2 nanobricks: Synthesis and its photo responsive behaviour

Ethylenediamine (EDA) mediated CuSbS2 nanobricks with an orthorhombic structure have been synthesized by a solvothermal method. Synthesis and formation of phasepure CuSbS2 nanobricks as a function of reaction temperature have been investigated critically. Both the final product and intermediates were examined and their consistent elemental composition in each step indicating the homogenous nucleation and growth of single-phase CuSbS2. Structural analysis reveals the orthorhombic structure of the CuSbS2 nanobricks with good crystallinity. Brick- like morphology and single crystalline nature of the nanocrystals have been evidenced by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Optical analyses show the direct band gap of nanobricks as 1.51 eV with wide range of absorption. Purity of the CuSbS2 nanobricks verified by Raman spectroscopy and elemental composition with their desired valence state is analysed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Thin films prepared from the colloidal nanobricks ink exhibits an interesting photoelectric response under white light illumination.